Talks I give throughout the year to hunting and fishing clubs around Illinois typically end with a round of questions that almost always includes, “How do you coach your writers to write what hunters and fishermen want to read?”
My standard reply: I tell my writers to make a list of things they don’t know. Then write something that teaches them what they don’t know. Actually, opportunities to teach myself things roll across this desk on a regular basis. I work to take my own advice.
Ralph Loos: Cranes aren’t a problem in Illinois – but they aren’t innocent, either
SUBSCRIBER CONTENT
Read this article now.
Create a free Outdoor News account.
Create a free account below to get instant access to this article, thousands of Outdoor News stories, and our digital editions. Your 1-month trial starts the moment you sign up.
No credit card required
No credit card required
Subscriber? Login Here.
Share on Social
Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Email
Hand-Picked For You
Trump’s EPA pitches more Clean Water Act rollbacks
Katie Hill
September 9, 2026
Decades after it was shot, Boone and Crockett Club verifies historic whitetail as largest U.S. typical buck
Ralph Loos
September 10, 2026
Finding balance in a crowded fishery within northern Minnesota’s Balm Lake
Glen Schmitt
September 10, 2026
Minnesota’s Outdoor Calendar
Outdoor News
September 10, 2026
Pro Tip of the Week: Watch long-range forecasts for waterfowl migration tips
Ben Marleau
September 10, 2026
Minnesota Cuffs & Collars: Lost teenagers found safely in St. Croix Forest
Staff Report
September 10, 2026
Related Articles

New guide evaluates golden shiner baitfish production strategies in Minnesota
Marie Thoms / Minnesota Sea Grant
September 10, 2026
Minnesota faces an estimated annual shortage of about 10,000 gallons, or 80,000 pounds, of golden shiner, a popular baitfish. Imports

Finding balance in a crowded fishery within northern Minnesota’s Balm Lake
Glen Schmitt
September 10, 2026
Is it possible for a lake to have too many bluegills and largemouth bass in it? When it comes to
Minnesota’s Outdoor Calendar
Outdoor News
September 10, 2026
A look at upcoming outdoor-related events from across Minnesota published in the Sept. 11, 2026 edition of Outdoor News.